Family reunions are events that people anticipate. People tend to be busy around these times, preparing everything from the venue to the food. This is also a chance for brothers, sisters, cousins, aunts, uncles, grandmothers, grandfathers, and other distant relatives to get together and see each other after what might have been a long time. Some families have traditional, yearly gatherings, whether it’s on Thanksgiving or to ring in the New Year. Of course, there will be family members who are chosen to host the event. If you’re up for this year and it’s your first time, here are some tips to help you do it the right way.
Don’t Go it on Your Own
Given that this is your first time, you definitely could use every bit of help you can get to make the event as fun and entertaining as possible. You can call on your other family members if they’re available. Have a meeting to plan out the event. It’s best that you also schedule this meeting at least one or two months ahead of time. You can also make plans for the program or budgeting, as well as consider hiring the services you would need. Food is central to your gathering, whether your family lives in California or in Utah. Sandwich catering, food cart rentals, or even meal delivery services are some options you can look into to liven up the table. Don’t try to do everything by yourself if you know you can’t handle it.
Choose Your Date Carefully
Although family may be important for you, you have to face the fact that everyone has different schedules. Some may even have work during important holidays depending on the nature of their jobs. Christmas and New Year may be a non-working day for most, but 24/7 jobs such as law enforcement, the leisure industry (like hotels), and services still require hands on deck. But even though you may have to expect a no-show from some of the family members, try to work out a day or two when the majority of those invited are available.
Prepare the Place
The venue may be a tricky matter. Usually, family reunions are done at home; but if your house cannot comfortably accommodate everyone in your clan, you may consider other options in your locale. If you absolutely need to, you may rent out a place, such as a restaurant or a dedicated events place in a hotel. Considering that you’re celebrating, and comfort is a priority, family members might not mind pitching in to pay for it.
Consider the Entertainment
Given that this is a family reunion, you will likely have a range of age groups in one place. Varied interest and references will be represented, so entertainment should ideally span the array of tastes. Music, for instance, is one of the things that define yet transcend generations—allow for variety in your tunes, from classic hits to modern day music. Think of games that most everybody would enjoy; party classics like charades, for instance, might be a good way to break the ice.
Reunions aren’t just about enjoying good food, games, and drinks. They are a chance for everybody to reconnect with their roots and strengthen their bonds as a unit, and a venue to express the love you have for your family. Make the most of your time together!